RN Programs in Los Angeles, California

Get your RN degree in Los Angeles, California - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Los Angeles, California

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN does to finding the right RN programs in Los Angeles. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make a career change, becoming an RN is a fulfilling and rewarding path.

Why Become an RN in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, known for its iconic Hollywood sign, sunny beaches, and diverse neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Beverly Hills, is a fantastic place to start your nursing career. The city offers a dynamic healthcare environment with numerous opportunities for growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Los Angeles is approximately $113,000 per year. The job growth for RNs is projected to be 9% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

For more information about Los Angeles, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program in Los Angeles, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy)
• Passing an entrance exam (like the TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening
• Valid CPR certification

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs in Los Angeles typically include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric and Maternal Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Community Health Nursing

Clinical rotations are an integral part of the curriculum, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in Los Angeles, California

Here are three reputable RN programs in Los Angeles:

1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Nursing
   • Location: 700 Tiverton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: UCLA offers a comprehensive BSN program that combines rigorous coursework with extensive clinical experience. The program is known for its cutting-edge research and high NCLEX pass rates.
   • UCLA School of Nursing
2. Los Angeles City College (LACC) Nursing Program
   • Location: 855 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: LACC provides an affordable ADN program focused on preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both theoretical instruction and clinical practice in various healthcare settings.
   • LACC Nursing Program
3. California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing
   • Location: 5151 State University Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90032
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
   • Description: CSULA offers both BSN and MSN programs with a strong focus on community health and leadership. The programs are designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel in diverse healthcare environments.
   • CSULA School of Nursing

RN Employment Opportunities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles boasts a wealth of healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are some major employers:

1. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
   • Location: 8700 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (Beverly Grove)
   • Description: Cedars-Sinai is one of the largest nonprofit hospitals in the western United States, renowned for its cutting-edge research and patient care.
   • Cedars-Sinai Careers
2. UCLA Health
   • Location: 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095 (Westwood)
   • Description: UCLA Health offers world-class patient care, education, and research, with numerous opportunities for RNs across various specialties.
   • UCLA Health Careers
3. Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center
   • Location: 4867 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (East Hollywood)
   • Description: Kaiser Permanente is a leading healthcare provider known for its integrated care model and commitment to improving community health.
   • Kaiser Permanente Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in California, you must:

1. Graduate from an accredited nursing program
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
3. Apply for RN licensure through the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)

Additionally, many RNs choose to obtain specialty certifications through organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Los Angeles can vary widely. For example:

• ADN programs at community colleges like LACC may cost around $6,000 to $10,000.
• BSN programs at universities like UCLA and CSULA can range from $20,000 to $50,000.

Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, loans, and scholarships. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Many schools also offer their own scholarships and grants.

Licensure Reciprocity

California is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. However, if you’re moving to California from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in Los Angeles, California, is an exciting and rewarding journey. With numerous RN programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and start your path toward becoming a Registered Nurse.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Los Angeles RN Programs?

RN programs (both campus-based & online RN courses) are medical training programs offered by universities, vocational or technical schools, and community or junior colleges. Some hospitals even offer registered nursing training as an RN diploma.

How do I become an licensed RN?

Each state sets its own RN licensure requirements. In order to earn your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX® examination. The NCLEX® is a comprehensive nursing exam that can only be taken by graduates of nursing programs approved by your state's board of nursing.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No you don't need to complete LPN training before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN Associate Degree program takes 2 years. You can earn your RN Diploma in 3 years. (BSN - 4 years, RN to BSN degrees can be 2-3 years).

Are There Free Nursing Schools in Los Angeles?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in California. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in California. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.

Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in California.

RN Job Description

Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation.